Kerala's Crucial Local Body Polls: A Political Temperature Check

The second phase of Kerala's local body elections saw over 60% voter turnout across seven districts. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed confidence in an LDF victory, despite opposition from Congress. Over 1.53 crore voters will influence the elections, considered a precursor to next year's state assembly vote.

In a vital local body election in Kerala, the second phase of polling witnessed more than 60% voter turnout across seven districts. Voting commenced at 7 am at 18,274 polling locations in Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod.

The election saw participation from people of all ages and professions, including political leaders. Among them was Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who voted in Kannur and expressed confidence in a historic win for the Left Democratic Front (LDF), arguing that controversies like the Sabarimala gold issue would not hinder their prospects.

This election is seen as a critical indicator before next year's state assembly elections, with over 1.53 crore voters set to choose representatives for 12,931 wards spanning various local bodies. The results, pivotal for the political climate, will be announced on December 13.

(With inputs from agencies.)